Residents press for urgent action on combined sewer overflows impacting Alewife Creek

The Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources convened on June 17, 2025, to discuss pressing issues related to combined sewer overflows (CSOs) and their impact on local waterways, particularly the Alewife. The meeting featured testimonies from residents and experts highlighting the urgent need for legislative action to address the deteriorating conditions of Massachusetts' water systems.

One resident from Somerville expressed deep concern over the degradation of the Alewife, a vital green space in the area. Over the past 13 years, the resident noted a significant decline in local wildlife, including the disappearance of fish and various turtle species. The testimony underscored the impact of climate change and sewage releases on the creek's health, leading to calls for immediate action. The resident advocated for House Bill 1031 and Senate Bill 608, which propose a 10-year timeline for addressing CSOs, emphasizing the need for measurable goals to tackle this ongoing issue.

Phil Guerin, executive director of the Massachusetts Coalition for Water Resources Stewardship, also provided testimony, discussing the financial implications of eliminating CSOs. He highlighted that the burden of funding these initiatives would fall on sewer ratepayers, as federal support remains limited. Guerin pointed out that the bipartisan infrastructure law has only provided a fraction of the necessary funding for water system improvements, raising concerns about the feasibility of advancing CSO elimination efforts in the current economic climate.

Hartman Dietz, representing the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe, shared his perspective on the historical significance of local rivers, including the Charles River, and criticized the ongoing neglect of these waterways. His testimony added a cultural dimension to the discussions, emphasizing the need for respect and stewardship of natural resources.

The committee's discussions reflect a growing recognition of the urgent need to address CSOs and their environmental impact. As the meeting concluded, the testimonies underscored the importance of legislative action to protect Massachusetts' waterways and ensure a sustainable future for local communities. The next steps will involve further deliberation on the proposed bills and consideration of the testimonies presented.